Potato souffle with cheese

Potato Cheese Souffle – A Comforting Delight

If you are a potato lover, then this potato cheese souffle recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. The potato souffle is a versatile dish, full of flavors and textures, perfectly combining potatoes, cheese, and a few simple spices to create a meal suitable for both lunch and dinner. This recipe is simple and quick, ideal for days when you want to indulge yourself without too much effort.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 4-6 medium potatoes (preferably new potatoes or white potatoes)
- 2 eggs
- 200 g cheese (I used mozzarella and parmesan, but you can experiment with other cheeses)
- Salt, pepper, and oregano, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Slices of ham (optional, but highly recommended for extra flavor)

A Touch of History
The potato souffle is a classic dish that has its origins in traditional cuisine. Over time, the potato has become a staple ingredient in many cultures, appreciated for its versatility. A souffle recipe brings together simple ingredients in a delicious and comforting combination, perfect for enjoying with loved ones.

Step by Step for a Perfect Souffle

Step 1: Preparing the Potatoes
Start by washing the potatoes well. Then, boil them with their skins in salted water for about 20-25 minutes until they are soft. Check them with a fork; if they go in easily, they are done. Once boiled, let them cool, then peel and grate them with a large grater.

Practical Tip: To save time, you can boil the potatoes a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. This way, it will be easier to use them in the recipe.

Step 2: Assembling the Souffle
In a small disposable baking dish, grease the bottom with a little olive oil. Add a uniform layer of grated potatoes and season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Place slices of mozzarella (or your chosen cheese) on top, then add the slices of ham if using, and another layer of potatoes.

Step 3: Primary Baking
Sprinkle grated parmesan on top and place the dish in the preheated oven at 180°C for 5-6 minutes until the cheese starts to melt and lightly brown.

Step 4: Adding the Eggs
Remove the dish from the oven and carefully crack the two eggs on top, being careful not to break the yolks. Season again with salt and pepper, then return the dish to the oven for another 5-7 minutes until the egg whites are fully cooked, and the yolks remain soft.

Step 5: Finishing the Souffle
Before removing the souffle from the oven, mix the sour cream with a little milk to thin it out and pour this mixture on top. Sprinkle more grated parmesan and put the dish back in the oven for another 2-3 minutes until a delicious sauce forms on top.

Serving
The potato cheese souffle is served warm, ideally alongside a fresh tomato salad or other seasonal vegetables. You can also add some olives or roasted peppers for extra flavor. This combination will turn every meal into a true celebration of flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use mashed potatoes instead of grated potatoes?
Yes, but the texture will be different. Grated potatoes give a fluffier and airier souffle.

2. What other cheeses can I use?
You can use goat cheese, feta, or cheddar to change the flavor profile.

3. How can I make the souffle spicier?
Add some chili flakes to the spice mix or use spicy cheese.

Nutritional Benefits
This potato cheese souffle is rich in carbohydrates, providing quick energy. The cheese adds protein and calcium, essential for bone health. Potatoes are also a good source of fiber, positively impacting digestion.

Delicious Variations
To add a touch of creativity, you can add sautéed vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, among the layers of potatoes. You can also experiment with spices, adding herbs like thyme or basil for extra flavor.

In conclusion, the potato cheese souffle is not just a simple recipe, but also a wonderful way to enjoy a comforting dish full of flavor. Whether you prepare it for yourself or for loved ones, it will surely be appreciated. Don't forget to share this recipe with your friends, as this delight deserves to be savored by everyone!